Educators ask parents to help fight violence like Josey shooting
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - After a shooting shattered the sense of security Wednesday at Josey High School, educators say they’re relying on parents to help keep kids safe.
The shooting sent a student to a hospital with a hand wound after an altercation Wednesday morning. The shooter, also a student, turned himself in Thursday.
Although the wound isn’t life-threatening, the incident terrified both students and parents, putting Josey and nearby Murphey Middle School on lockdown.
“I want to share the importance of parents and guardians communicating with their children about this unfortunate incident that impacted two schools,” Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw said during a news conference Wednesday afternoon.
He said the district is depending on parents to help prevent future incidents like this.
“We rely on our parents and guardians to gather children and keep prohibited items out of our schools,” he said, telling parents to check their kids’ book bags.
He said although Richmond County schools don’t have metal detectors, it’s a matter that’s up for discussion.
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Bradshaw was ed at the news cvonference by Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree.
Both emphasized the need for community and parental involvement to address violence.
“The schools are just an extension of our neighborhoods,” Roundtree said, “so what goes on in our neighborhoods continues in our schools.”
Bradshaw said: “Please have conversations with your children about solving problems without violence.”
PHOTO GALLERY:
Roundtree emphasized that active-shooter training at an old school two months ago was a huge help in preventing any fatalities.
And he said educatorts followed protocol well in immediately locking down Josey after Wednesday’s shooting.
“We know from national narratives that it’s the worst nightmare for parents,” he said. “We appreciate their , and the fact that so many came to the school followed our instructions and went to a designated site.”
CLASSES CANCELED:
- Classes won’t be held Friday at Josey High School, Murphey Middle School or Marion E. Barnes Career Center. When classes resume Monday, counselors will be available to students.
He said parents need to be aware ahead of time of the official process for picking up their kids.
“That’s what we try to tell our parents about all our schools: Be aware of the unification process in case of any emergency at your school,” he said. “Know where to go so you don’t get frustrated or caught up in any traffic.”
Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson addressed the shooting, saying he’s saddened by the increased violence in our community.
He says we need to create safe havens for our children, including expanding after-school programs.
“We are calling for volunteers that are willing to roll up their sleeves and help,” Johnson said.
MAYOR’S STATEMENT:
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